Eric Ray Jones

  Eric Ray Jones, age 54, of McArthur, passed away Friday, August 28, 2026, at his home. He was born April 26, 1972 in Logan, Ohio, son of Oliver Ray Jones and Carol Ann Allen Hughes. Eric was a 1990 graduate of Vinton County High School and Buckeye Hills Career Center. In his 54 years, Eric “Jonesy” lived a life full of deep connections, laughter, and a profound love for the people around him. Eric had a huge heart and was always willing to give to those around him. Though life was not always easy, his struggles never took away from the kindness and generosity he showed others. He wanted everyone to feel welcome and was the kind of person who would give someone the shirt off his back if they needed it. Eric had a deep love for the outdoors and all kinds of hunting, a passion he shared not only with his late father, Oliver Ray Jones, but also with his own children. Deer hunting, turkey hunting, and mushroom hunting were among his favorites. Anyone who hunted with Eric knew just how talented he was at calling turkeys. It was something he loved, something he was incredibly good at, and something many people came to know him for. Some of Eric’s fondest memories were made hunting throughout the years with his father, his children, and many cherished friends. As a younger man, Eric also worked cutting timber, spending much of his time in the outdoors he had always loved. In addition to hunting, Eric had a strong love for sports. He was a huge fan of Kentucky basketball and Ohio State football, but more than anything, he loved watching his own children play the sports they loved. Some of his children’s fondest memories are of their dad teaching them how to play, traveling with them through countless years of travel basketball, and simply sitting together on the couch watching their favorite teams. Eric also enjoyed golfing, a pastime he shared over the years with his father and his sons. Sports gave Eric another way to spend time with the people he loved and created memories his children will carry with them forever. Eric had a great sense of humor and always managed to make those around him laugh. He had an ornery side and could find humor in just about any situation. Whether he was cracking a joke to break the tension or giving someone a hard time just to see them smile, his playful teasing was a hallmark of how he showed he cared. One thing that remained evident throughout Eric’s life was the love he had for his family, especially his mother, Carol Ann Hughes (Jay), and his three children, whom he leaves behind: Brett Allen Jones, Derick Austin (Madison) Jones, and Erin Shay Jones. Eric also leaves behind two beloved grandchildren, Jovie and Maverick Jones, whom he was incredibly proud of. In addition to his father, Eric was preceded in death by his grandparents, Earl and Sylvia Jones and Barrett and Lucille Allen; his aunt, Debbie (Matthew) Haybron, aunt Linda Wright, uncle Earl Dean Jones and cousin Kyle Thrush. In addition to his mother, children, and grandchildren, Eric is survived by several aunts and uncles; Barrett and Connie Allen, Carl and Helen Jones, Roy and Sonja Jones, and several cousins. Those who knew Eric will remember his generous heart, his ornery sense of humor, and the laughter and memories he shared with the people he loved. He will be deeply missed by his family and many cherished friends. Calling hours will be Friday, September 4, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the McWilliams Funeral Home in Wellston. A Celebration of Life service will follow the calling hours at 6 p.m. with Pastor Ken Christy officiating. Cremation will follow the service. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhome.com.